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Building a pathway for girls rugby in the Hunter

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Hunter Junior Rugby Union (HJRU) is searching for the next Layne Morgan, Jesse Southwell or Maddy McArthur when it hosts its inaugural Girls Try Rugby Day at Maitland this weekend.

The organisation and NSW Waratahs are aligning with all 12 local clubs, as well as the Hunter Wildfires’ female stars, to offer a jam-packed event with skills sessions, games and competitions at Marcellin Park on Sunday 30 January between 9am and 11am.

Participants can also attend a free barbecue afterwards.

HJRU competition manager Rachael Marsh said newcomers, and experienced campaigners, would be welcomed with open arms.

“We’re encouraging all players to bring a friend who they might think will enjoy playing the game of rugby,” she added.

“Layne Morgan, Jesse Southwell and Maddy McArthur are just a few of the homegrown contingent now representing the NSW Waratahs in both under-18s and Super Rugby across Rugby 7s and XVs.

“So, it’s important to build a pathway for the girls in this region.

“Hunter rugby has always been known for strong junior talent mainly among the boys.

“But, until now, the opportunity for identification among the females and higher honours meant leaving behind hometowns and moving to Sydney.

“This year, Hunter Junior Rugby Union wants to help create a corridor from under-7s to the Jack Scott and beyond.

“Hopefully, on Sunday, girls can learn some skills and do a few drills alongside their senior female counterparts in a first-ever Girls Try Rugby Day hosted by all clubs at the one venue.”

With a focus on creating growth among the ranks, HJRU president Kobus “Bok” Hattingh has worked closely with local coordinator Rowena Backus, NSW development officer Brent Dale, the Wildfires’ leadership team as well as Gerry Mason, Will Scully, Wendy Whittaker, Daniel Lewer and a handful of other people, according to Marsh.

“They’re all passionate about growing the game for girls and giving them a genuine opportunity to remain in their hometown following a genuine pathway all the way through,” she said.

“Hunter Junior Rugby Union fielded girls’ teams at the NSW State 7s Championships in Foster in the under-17 and under-17 divisions.

“The weekend showcased the best up and coming talent in NSW, with the under-15s taking out second place overall after a narrow 19-14 loss to Manly in the grand final.

“Ryvrr Lee-Alo (Hamilton), Hebe Backus (Hamilton), Eve Keeling (Hamilton), Elizabeth Montgomery (Merewether), Maronay Smuts (Maitland), Caoimhe Waldron (Hamilton) and Natayah Wells (Easts) identified for the NSWRU development squad for 2022.

“The XVs representative season starts in March and we are anticipating record numbers at trials this year, especially after how good teams went in 2021.”

For more information and enquires, contact Rachael Marsh on 0477 184 867.

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